Comments on: Wine on a budget: How to get good deals on winehttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/
Common sense advice on money saving tips, how to get out of debt, high interest savings accounts, cd rates, money market accounts, mortgage rates, money management and more.Sun, 02 Aug 2015 19:36:33 +0000hourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=3.0.1By: Robinhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-1/#comment-3686827
RobinSun, 08 Jun 2014 20:49:45 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-3686827Yes, that's a bit sad not to like beer in the Portland OR area. I love this place but dislike beer. My parents boozed it up too frequently and too much altogether, drinking mainly beer until they passed out after screaming at us and each other and involving the police int heir nasty fights nearly every weekend for years. I know it's not the BEER's fault, but he smell of beer now turns my stomach so much I can't get near it, even if I wanted to. It's difficult to even EAT at a place that features many kinds of beer. Imagine the smell of Coors Light the next morning left overnight in the can, mixed with stale cigarette smoke and my parents' bad breath and sour dispositions from a hangover... Yikes.Yes, that’s a bit sad not to like beer in the Portland OR area. I love this place but dislike beer. My parents boozed it up too frequently and too much altogether, drinking mainly beer until they passed out after screaming at us and each other and involving the police int heir nasty fights nearly every weekend for years. I know it’s not the BEER’s fault, but he smell of beer now turns my stomach so much I can’t get near it, even if I wanted to. It’s difficult to even EAT at a place that features many kinds of beer. Imagine the smell of Coors Light the next morning left overnight in the can, mixed with stale cigarette smoke and my parents’ bad breath and sour dispositions from a hangover… Yikes.

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]]>By: DennisHhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-1/#comment-3084992
DennisHTue, 06 Nov 2012 11:33:01 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-3084992Safeway jacked up the "regular" prices of many wines that I buy regularly for the 30% sale.
Very misleading (and nearly fraud in my opinion).
Buyer beware.
Also, strongly agree with the vacuum pump. It will keep wine for a few days but not for three weeks (for example at a vacation home).
Next best advise is to store wine in a refrigerator when opened to retard growth of things that make open wine taste bad.Safeway jacked up the “regular” prices of many wines that I buy regularly for the 30% sale.
Very misleading (and nearly fraud in my opinion).

Buyer beware.

Also, strongly agree with the vacuum pump. It will keep wine for a few days but not for three weeks (for example at a vacation home).
Next best advise is to store wine in a refrigerator when opened to retard growth of things that make open wine taste bad.

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]]>By: Iohttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-1001332
IoThu, 09 Dec 2010 18:36:01 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-1001332Another option (at least where we live) is to join a wine guild or buying club. This is basically just a wine co-op. For an annual fee, members pay a certain amount above wholesale (in our case, 10%). For the types of wines we get regularly (approx $10/bottle), we usually save $10-$15 a bottle, quickly making up for the annual fee. This isn't a great deal if you are an occasional wine drinker, but if you drink a lot of wine (like we do), you can save tons of money. Also, you're generally drinking better wine, wine that would normally retail for more that one might otherwise spend for an "everyday" wine. We joined a year ago and have been really delighted with both the quality of the wine and the savings.Another option (at least where we live) is to join a wine guild or buying club. This is basically just a wine co-op. For an annual fee, members pay a certain amount above wholesale (in our case, 10%). For the types of wines we get regularly (approx $10/bottle), we usually save $10-$15 a bottle, quickly making up for the annual fee. This isn’t a great deal if you are an occasional wine drinker, but if you drink a lot of wine (like we do), you can save tons of money. Also, you’re generally drinking better wine, wine that would normally retail for more that one might otherwise spend for an “everyday” wine. We joined a year ago and have been really delighted with both the quality of the wine and the savings.

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]]>By: Carriehttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-976462
CarrieThu, 02 Dec 2010 02:51:16 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-976462Right now, our Whole Foods (VA) is offering 20% off a case of wine - a pretty good deal, if you stick to their "Value" wines (look down low, look up high!)
We have also found a few "safe" cheap wines that we like - Montepulciano D'Abbruzzo, Vinho Verde, Gruet... etc. While we love Oregon Pinot Noir, we'd probably only buy it for a special occasion.
And, if worse comes to worst and you hate a cheap wine, you can always cook with it... unless it's blush. Anyone have any ideas?Right now, our Whole Foods (VA) is offering 20% off a case of wine – a pretty good deal, if you stick to their “Value” wines (look down low, look up high!)

We have also found a few “safe” cheap wines that we like – Montepulciano D’Abbruzzo, Vinho Verde, Gruet… etc. While we love Oregon Pinot Noir, we’d probably only buy it for a special occasion.

And, if worse comes to worst and you hate a cheap wine, you can always cook with it… unless it’s blush. Anyone have any ideas?

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]]>By: Maggiehttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-974152
MaggieWed, 01 Dec 2010 04:45:56 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-974152" I don’t mind giving expensive wine as a hostess gift, but I can’t bring myself to drink it at home. Is that weird?"
No. I feel the same way about a number of products, most falling into the 'want but don't need' category. Wine, cheeses, fancy olive oil, fancy soaps, and flowers are all things where as a gift should be the best you can afford, but around the house...do you need $30 olive oil? No. Nobody does. But it's nice to get. :-)” I don’t mind giving expensive wine as a hostess gift, but I can’t bring myself to drink it at home. Is that weird?”

No. I feel the same way about a number of products, most falling into the ‘want but don’t need’ category. Wine, cheeses, fancy olive oil, fancy soaps, and flowers are all things where as a gift should be the best you can afford, but around the house…do you need $30 olive oil? No. Nobody does. But it’s nice to get.

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]]>By: Joshhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-971632
JoshMon, 29 Nov 2010 20:23:03 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-971632A lot has been said here about buying inexpensive wines in local stores, and that'll get a casual wine drinker all they might like, but those of us who are way-too-into wine take a different approach.
1) We share our sources and our finds. Through online communities and networks of nearby friends, we discuss what tastes good, who's having a sale, and band together to buy multiple bottles at the case discount. When a particular $70 bottle was spotted on sale for $21, i bought 2 cases after others assured me they wanted a share. We learn which bottles are good, before we buy them, we taste in groups to get a broader range of exposure than we could individually afford, and we know what others have paid for the wine.
2) We buy online when local laws allow it. This ensures that our sources are competing nationally, not just in our area. We use sites like wine-searcher, vinquire, and winezap to compare prices, and we wait for sales.
3) We sign up for mailing lists from large wine resellers, like hart-davis-hart, chicago wine company, and Benchmark wine group. When they get a new consignment, we'll watch for good prices on our favorites (see #1).
4) Know the cult wines, avoid them and seek their alternatives. Some wines are expensive solely because of their cult following; know the other winemakers of the same varietal of wine, and know which are well regarded despite their obscurity. That's going to take research on your part, but you'll be rewarded with inexpensive fine wines and a reputation amongst your friends as being "in the know."
So, you think this is just for fancy wine? You could be right, except that I'm getting my "fancy" wine at the same price you're getting your table wine. Quit drinking Barefoot and Yellowtail, with a little research you can do so much better for not much more money.A lot has been said here about buying inexpensive wines in local stores, and that’ll get a casual wine drinker all they might like, but those of us who are way-too-into wine take a different approach.

1) We share our sources and our finds. Through online communities and networks of nearby friends, we discuss what tastes good, who’s having a sale, and band together to buy multiple bottles at the case discount. When a particular $70 bottle was spotted on sale for $21, i bought 2 cases after others assured me they wanted a share. We learn which bottles are good, before we buy them, we taste in groups to get a broader range of exposure than we could individually afford, and we know what others have paid for the wine.

2) We buy online when local laws allow it. This ensures that our sources are competing nationally, not just in our area. We use sites like wine-searcher, vinquire, and winezap to compare prices, and we wait for sales.

3) We sign up for mailing lists from large wine resellers, like hart-davis-hart, chicago wine company, and Benchmark wine group. When they get a new consignment, we’ll watch for good prices on our favorites (see #1).

4) Know the cult wines, avoid them and seek their alternatives. Some wines are expensive solely because of their cult following; know the other winemakers of the same varietal of wine, and know which are well regarded despite their obscurity. That’s going to take research on your part, but you’ll be rewarded with inexpensive fine wines and a reputation amongst your friends as being “in the know.”

So, you think this is just for fancy wine? You could be right, except that I’m getting my “fancy” wine at the same price you’re getting your table wine. Quit drinking Barefoot and Yellowtail, with a little research you can do so much better for not much more money.

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]]>By: RMhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-966652
RMFri, 26 Nov 2010 23:18:16 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-966652Another tip here in Oregon, if you are buying a case of a wine, is to order it through your local grocery - Thriftway, Freddies, etc. Most will normally sell you a solid case (not mixed) for their cost plus 10%. This is even cheaper than the New Seasons or Zupans 20% discount on 12 bottles or more and will beat most any wine store's case discount.Another tip here in Oregon, if you are buying a case of a wine, is to order it through your local grocery – Thriftway, Freddies, etc. Most will normally sell you a solid case (not mixed) for their cost plus 10%. This is even cheaper than the New Seasons or Zupans 20% discount on 12 bottles or more and will beat most any wine store’s case discount.

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]]>By: Edhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-965332
EdFri, 26 Nov 2010 06:03:12 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-965332If you like Lagavulen, you might like Finlagen at Trader Joe's. Nice heavy smoke flavor and only $17.99 a bottle.If you like Lagavulen, you might like Finlagen at Trader Joe’s. Nice heavy smoke flavor and only $17.99 a bottle.

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]]>By: Jasonhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-963522
JasonWed, 24 Nov 2010 22:29:05 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-963522There's some great insight here, though I do take issue with the suggestion that folks find a wine they like, and stick to it. To me, that's sort of like saying "I like cheeseburgers, so I won't eat anything else". Well, there's a big, beautiful world of wine out there, and exploring it should be part of the fun.
If you want to expose yourself to the incredible range of enjoyable wine out there, take advantage of the many new local wine shops springing up around the country. They're generally very well informed, offer classes, free tastings and other wine-related events, and they are generally chock full of interesting juice at just about any price. Oh, and if you encounter any snobbery, you're in the wrong place. Wine should be on every table, and it should be a part of lunch & dinner - maybe even breakfast!
If you want to check out free tastings, take a class or just find out more about your local wine scene, check out http://www.localwineevents.com/
Trinch!There’s some great insight here, though I do take issue with the suggestion that folks find a wine they like, and stick to it. To me, that’s sort of like saying “I like cheeseburgers, so I won’t eat anything else”. Well, there’s a big, beautiful world of wine out there, and exploring it should be part of the fun.

If you want to expose yourself to the incredible range of enjoyable wine out there, take advantage of the many new local wine shops springing up around the country. They’re generally very well informed, offer classes, free tastings and other wine-related events, and they are generally chock full of interesting juice at just about any price. Oh, and if you encounter any snobbery, you’re in the wrong place. Wine should be on every table, and it should be a part of lunch & dinner – maybe even breakfast!

]]>By: Sonohueyhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-963402
SonohueyWed, 24 Nov 2010 19:17:32 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-963402For those in the Monroe, NY area, Star Liquors in the Stop and Shop plaza, the old Grand Union plaza, holds wine tastings every weekend.
They will also hold sales one a month or every two months where everything is 10 to 15% off.
The staff is knowledgeable and can make very good recommendations, the store's prices are pretty good, and the selection is HUGE.
Worth the trip if in the area. And no, I do not work for them - just love the store.For those in the Monroe, NY area, Star Liquors in the Stop and Shop plaza, the old Grand Union plaza, holds wine tastings every weekend.

They will also hold sales one a month or every two months where everything is 10 to 15% off.

The staff is knowledgeable and can make very good recommendations, the store’s prices are pretty good, and the selection is HUGE.

Worth the trip if in the area. And no, I do not work for them – just love the store.

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]]>By: Kenton Erwinhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-963392
Kenton ErwinWed, 24 Nov 2010 19:09:58 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-963392These are all great pointers for finding good wine at great prices.
Another useful idea is to find a wine e-retailer (like me). We don't have the overhead costs of the brick and mortar stores, but we have the necessary licenses to operate just like any other retailer. Often we can sell at prices lower than the grocery stores, and certainly lower than the wine stores.These are all great pointers for finding good wine at great prices.

Another useful idea is to find a wine e-retailer (like me). We don’t have the overhead costs of the brick and mortar stores, but we have the necessary licenses to operate just like any other retailer. Often we can sell at prices lower than the grocery stores, and certainly lower than the wine stores.

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]]>By: El Nerdohttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-963382
El NerdoWed, 24 Nov 2010 19:08:21 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-963382@ Dave-- I don't know about the DIY option. Winemaking is an art, there are a lot of pros putting out an inferior product already, I fear I might go blind if I attempt this on my own (methanol is never a good thing). For under $5 I can get a really nice bottle at Trader Joe's (if picked right), minus the equipment, the hassle, and the health risks. Whether it's economies of scale, or thousands of years of tradition, or university degrees in Oenology, other people can do it faster, cheaper and better than I ever could.
Sounds like a nice hobby, but not sure it qualifies as a great bargain for most mortals.@ Dave– I don’t know about the DIY option. Winemaking is an art, there are a lot of pros putting out an inferior product already, I fear I might go blind if I attempt this on my own (methanol is never a good thing). For under $5 I can get a really nice bottle at Trader Joe’s (if picked right), minus the equipment, the hassle, and the health risks. Whether it’s economies of scale, or thousands of years of tradition, or university degrees in Oenology, other people can do it faster, cheaper and better than I ever could.

Sounds like a nice hobby, but not sure it qualifies as a great bargain for most mortals.

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]]>By: Husshttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-963372
HussWed, 24 Nov 2010 19:07:48 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-963372Great article and excellent comments. What I have done is setup an email address (e.g. ILoveThisWine@Gmail.com) and I send a quick email with specifics of the wine I really enjoy.
With the advent of smartphones, it only takes me 30 seconds to write an email to this address with vintner, vintage, tasting notes, and maybe even a quick picture of the bottle (makes it much easier to find at BevMo!). Now I have a centralized location for all the wines I enjoy, how much they cost, etc.Great article and excellent comments. What I have done is setup an email address (e.g. ILoveThisWine@Gmail.com) and I send a quick email with specifics of the wine I really enjoy.

With the advent of smartphones, it only takes me 30 seconds to write an email to this address with vintner, vintage, tasting notes, and maybe even a quick picture of the bottle (makes it much easier to find at BevMo!). Now I have a centralized location for all the wines I enjoy, how much they cost, etc.

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]]>By: Markhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-963322
MarkWed, 24 Nov 2010 19:03:16 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-963322Another tip I've used to good success - once you find the wines you like the most (Cabernet, Merlot, Malbec, Chardonnay, etc.), check out the ratings from review magazines that many supermarkets helpfully post. Usually, the highest-rated wines will carry the highest price-tags. BUT, the same varietal from a different label, of the same year and region will be just, or nearly as good. So much of a wine's flavor is due to the weather of that season, that the vintner's skill is almost negligible in a good year.Another tip I’ve used to good success – once you find the wines you like the most (Cabernet, Merlot, Malbec, Chardonnay, etc.), check out the ratings from review magazines that many supermarkets helpfully post. Usually, the highest-rated wines will carry the highest price-tags. BUT, the same varietal from a different label, of the same year and region will be just, or nearly as good. So much of a wine’s flavor is due to the weather of that season, that the vintner’s skill is almost negligible in a good year.

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]]>By: Sandyhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-963292
SandyWed, 24 Nov 2010 18:48:41 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-963292My husband & I buy wines from various wineries and wine clubs to have some "special" bottles in our cellar (we are big wine drinkers, & live in California) but our everyday bargains are generally not American. It pays to experiment with wines from outside the U.S. since you find so many good deals on nice table wine that way.
Cost Plus World Market and Trader Joes are good for this kind of experimentation and if you don't like the wine, use it for cooking.
It'll keep for weeks in the fridge (to cook with.)
I've been happy with almost any Argentinian Malbec or Spanish Tempranillo or Garnacha. For whites, try a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand (on sale; they're not always as inexpensive) or a South American Torrontes, or even a South African Chenin Blanc if you are feeling daring.
As other folks have said, taste, taste, taste and find out what you like, and be open to try new varietals. And ignore point systems! They really don't mean much about what YOU will like. Oh, and I agree that it pays to find a local wine shop & get help. Don't assume that their prices will be higher; that is often not the case. Don't be shy about letting the folks in the shop know what kind of thing you like.My husband & I buy wines from various wineries and wine clubs to have some “special” bottles in our cellar (we are big wine drinkers, & live in California) but our everyday bargains are generally not American. It pays to experiment with wines from outside the U.S. since you find so many good deals on nice table wine that way.

Cost Plus World Market and Trader Joes are good for this kind of experimentation and if you don’t like the wine, use it for cooking.
It’ll keep for weeks in the fridge (to cook with.)

I’ve been happy with almost any Argentinian Malbec or Spanish Tempranillo or Garnacha. For whites, try a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand (on sale; they’re not always as inexpensive) or a South American Torrontes, or even a South African Chenin Blanc if you are feeling daring.

As other folks have said, taste, taste, taste and find out what you like, and be open to try new varietals. And ignore point systems! They really don’t mean much about what YOU will like. Oh, and I agree that it pays to find a local wine shop & get help. Don’t assume that their prices will be higher; that is often not the case. Don’t be shy about letting the folks in the shop know what kind of thing you like.

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]]>By: Davehttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-962962
DaveWed, 24 Nov 2010 16:01:00 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-962962Make your own. The initial expense for equipment is a little high apx. $350.00. after a couple batches you will be spending about 4 - 5 $ a bottle.Make your own. The initial expense for equipment is a little high apx. $350.00. after a couple batches you will be spending about 4 – 5 $ a bottle.

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]]>By: honeybeehttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-962952
honeybeeWed, 24 Nov 2010 15:58:34 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-962952@Stan #34... I find it hard to believe that alcohol is twice as detrimental as Meth. This anyway isn't the proper forum to criticize people who enjoy a drink, and how to save on it.
Also... :)
http://blogs.discovermagazine.com/gnxp/2010/05/people-of-class-drink-alcohol/@Stan #34… I find it hard to believe that alcohol is twice as detrimental as Meth. This anyway isn’t the proper forum to criticize people who enjoy a drink, and how to save on it.

]]>By: Michaelhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-962942
MichaelWed, 24 Nov 2010 15:38:56 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-962942Oh, and as for boxes, not all boxes are made the same, but Black Box and Bota Box are generally pretty high quality wines.
The US is the only major wine consuming nation that hasn't embraced the box wholesale - In France and Itally you see them everywhere.Oh, and as for boxes, not all boxes are made the same, but Black Box and Bota Box are generally pretty high quality wines.

The US is the only major wine consuming nation that hasn’t embraced the box wholesale – In France and Itally you see them everywhere.

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]]>By: Michaelhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-962932
MichaelWed, 24 Nov 2010 15:36:05 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-962932It is my exeperience, actually, that warehouse clubs are not much cheaper for wines than a place like BevMo or Friar Tucks, and what ever tier 1 bottle shop you might have locally.
Buying a case at a tier 1 bottle shop will almost always net you a savings over buying individual bottles. For people who live on the west coast, or near a vineyard, the cheapest option is usually buying direct from the vineyard.
Also, on closures, the safest closure (i.e. the closure with the lowest failure rate) is the screw cap. And you will find that a lot of really good, but affordable wines, have switched to the screw cap. For instance, Hogue makes a fantastic Reisling and several other pretty good whites, and they use only screw caps, also known as Stelvin Closures.
Most affordable New Zealand and Australian wines are also going to the Stelvin Closure.It is my exeperience, actually, that warehouse clubs are not much cheaper for wines than a place like BevMo or Friar Tucks, and what ever tier 1 bottle shop you might have locally.

Buying a case at a tier 1 bottle shop will almost always net you a savings over buying individual bottles. For people who live on the west coast, or near a vineyard, the cheapest option is usually buying direct from the vineyard.

Also, on closures, the safest closure (i.e. the closure with the lowest failure rate) is the screw cap. And you will find that a lot of really good, but affordable wines, have switched to the screw cap. For instance, Hogue makes a fantastic Reisling and several other pretty good whites, and they use only screw caps, also known as Stelvin Closures.

Most affordable New Zealand and Australian wines are also going to the Stelvin Closure.

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]]>By: Sandy @ yesiamcheaphttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-962072
Sandy @ yesiamcheapWed, 24 Nov 2010 05:22:17 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-962072How did you skip boxed wine?! If you're saving, you might as well. There is nothing wrong with boxes.How did you skip boxed wine?! If you’re saving, you might as well. There is nothing wrong with boxes.

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]]>By: Charleshttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-962022
CharlesWed, 24 Nov 2010 04:46:46 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-962022Don't drink beer? For a guy in Wisconsin with German blood this just pissed me off. ;). Although I do have to say that beer isn't beer so to speak. If you were a real (not bud/miller/coors crap) beer drinker you'd get that. Perhaps you'll know what I mean the next time you hear someone say, "I don't drink wine." It's like saying I don't eat.Don’t drink beer? For a guy in Wisconsin with German blood this just pissed me off. . Although I do have to say that beer isn’t beer so to speak. If you were a real (not bud/miller/coors crap) beer drinker you’d get that. Perhaps you’ll know what I mean the next time you hear someone say, “I don’t drink wine.” It’s like saying I don’t eat.

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]]>By: MThttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-2/#comment-962002
MTWed, 24 Nov 2010 04:20:20 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-962002I somewhat disagree about that article concerning wine experts... the article fails to note what they define as an expert in the study.
When I bartended summers at a luxury 5 star coastal resort, one of my managers was a sommelier/Master of Wine. They literally can tell you from a blind taste test what region of the world the wine was grown, in what type of soil, etc and can pretty accurately ballpark the year. See the test FAQ: http://www.mastersofwine.org/en/examination/index.cfm
While wine people can occasionally be snooty, I really found talking with a certified expert to be very very interesting.I somewhat disagree about that article concerning wine experts… the article fails to note what they define as an expert in the study.

When I bartended summers at a luxury 5 star coastal resort, one of my managers was a sommelier/Master of Wine. They literally can tell you from a blind taste test what region of the world the wine was grown, in what type of soil, etc and can pretty accurately ballpark the year. See the test FAQ: http://www.mastersofwine.org/en/examination/index.cfm

While wine people can occasionally be snooty, I really found talking with a certified expert to be very very interesting.

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]]>By: Mike- Saving Money Todayhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-1/#comment-961952
Mike- Saving Money TodayWed, 24 Nov 2010 03:37:03 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-961952So what are the 4 wines that you have on your short list??
I have a few favorites too that I drink often, but I also like to try new ones. Sometimes they aren't that good, but I've found a few gems like that.So what are the 4 wines that you have on your short list??

I have a few favorites too that I drink often, but I also like to try new ones. Sometimes they aren’t that good, but I’ve found a few gems like that.

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]]>By: Bryanhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-1/#comment-961872
BryanWed, 24 Nov 2010 02:41:19 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-961872@#46 Agreed on CT's rules. Especially the not selling alcohol on Sundays, thats when I usually try to do all my shopping in one day and having only lived here a few months that always messes me up.
Best tip for finding good wines. Throw a wine tasting party, invite everyone to bring a bottle of one of their favorites (if you want to be even more frugal set a $15/bottle limit), have some snacks ready and have a good time. Depending on the size of the party, everyone will have a glass or half a glass of each and just make notes on what you like. Once you know atleast characteristics you like its easy to get good recommendations at a decent package store.
Same tip goes for beer. There is a lot of excellent craft beer out there. Again knowing which styles you like, and more importantly which you don't goes a long way to getting your money's worth.@#46 Agreed on CT’s rules. Especially the not selling alcohol on Sundays, thats when I usually try to do all my shopping in one day and having only lived here a few months that always messes me up.

Best tip for finding good wines. Throw a wine tasting party, invite everyone to bring a bottle of one of their favorites (if you want to be even more frugal set a $15/bottle limit), have some snacks ready and have a good time. Depending on the size of the party, everyone will have a glass or half a glass of each and just make notes on what you like. Once you know atleast characteristics you like its easy to get good recommendations at a decent package store.

Same tip goes for beer. There is a lot of excellent craft beer out there. Again knowing which styles you like, and more importantly which you don’t goes a long way to getting your money’s worth.

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]]>By: El Nerdohttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-1/#comment-961862
El NerdoWed, 24 Nov 2010 02:30:54 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-961862Jennifer--
Ha ha, I remember spending time in New Haven-- what a pain it was to buy booze!
Something I do at Costco is look for the tags showing review points from publications (wine enthusiast, wine spectator, whatever they are called). Anything with about 90 points for $10 or less will likely be a great bargain, or at least a pretty good thing to try if you like. That saves you the trouble of going through magazine subscriptions, wine tastings, websites, etc, unless you like to spend time doing that.Jennifer–

Ha ha, I remember spending time in New Haven– what a pain it was to buy booze!

Something I do at Costco is look for the tags showing review points from publications (wine enthusiast, wine spectator, whatever they are called). Anything with about 90 points for $10 or less will likely be a great bargain, or at least a pretty good thing to try if you like. That saves you the trouble of going through magazine subscriptions, wine tastings, websites, etc, unless you like to spend time doing that.

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]]>By: Brianhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-1/#comment-961792
BrianWed, 24 Nov 2010 01:50:48 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-961792There are places that do brew your own beer or wine. These can be very cost effictive and a good way to get into making your own drink with the help of an experienced guide and their equipment.There are places that do brew your own beer or wine. These can be very cost effictive and a good way to get into making your own drink with the help of an experienced guide and their equipment.

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]]>By: Jenniferhttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-1/#comment-961742
JenniferWed, 24 Nov 2010 01:15:26 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-961742Unfortunately in CT we have to buy wine & hard liquor in a liquor store and only beer in grocery stores. Which means places like Trader Joes & Whole Foods do not sell wine at all. Thankfully Costco has a separate Costco liquor right next to it. I have not figured out if there are ways to get "deals" here or not. I'm much more used to CA where wine is a much bigger deal.Unfortunately in CT we have to buy wine & hard liquor in a liquor store and only beer in grocery stores. Which means places like Trader Joes & Whole Foods do not sell wine at all. Thankfully Costco has a separate Costco liquor right next to it. I have not figured out if there are ways to get “deals” here or not. I’m much more used to CA where wine is a much bigger deal.

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]]>By: El Nerdohttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-1/#comment-961712
El NerdoWed, 24 Nov 2010 00:57:02 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-961712@#24 Dave & all -- YES! Black Box is actually 4 bottles, I mixed up liters with bottles (bottles are as we all know 750ml, so 3l=4bottles). Sorry for the confusion-- give that wine a try if you haven't!@#24 Dave & all — YES! Black Box is actually 4 bottles, I mixed up liters with bottles (bottles are as we all know 750ml, so 3l=4bottles). Sorry for the confusion– give that wine a try if you haven’t!

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]]>By: winohttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-1/#comment-961592
winoTue, 23 Nov 2010 22:30:55 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-961592I will second bevmo! They have a great selection and you can buy online from them as well (https://www.bevmo.com/). If you wait until they have their semi-annual 5 cent sale (buy a bottle, get the same bottle for 5 cents) you get a great deal (almost half price). I like buying online and picking up in store, that way I can find 90+ point wines for under $20; I like to try new wines and have almost always been happy with the wines I've tried using this method.I will second bevmo! They have a great selection and you can buy online from them as well (https://www.bevmo.com/). If you wait until they have their semi-annual 5 cent sale (buy a bottle, get the same bottle for 5 cents) you get a great deal (almost half price). I like buying online and picking up in store, that way I can find 90+ point wines for under $20; I like to try new wines and have almost always been happy with the wines I’ve tried using this method.

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]]>By: Wadehttp://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2010/11/23/wine-on-a-budget-how-to-get-good-deals-on-wine/comment-page-1/#comment-961582
WadeTue, 23 Nov 2010 22:20:45 +0000http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/?p=55212#comment-961582In buying wine, buying from the winery is not always the best deal. At a local winery (Wisconsin), my wife and I noticed that they were selling one of their more common wines for $4 more per bottle than at any grocery store that I have been to. However, they also carried more rare wines that are not generally seen in stores and others that were better deals than stores could offer. In the end it is like anything else, shop around and compare prices before making the purchase.In buying wine, buying from the winery is not always the best deal. At a local winery (Wisconsin), my wife and I noticed that they were selling one of their more common wines for $4 more per bottle than at any grocery store that I have been to. However, they also carried more rare wines that are not generally seen in stores and others that were better deals than stores could offer. In the end it is like anything else, shop around and compare prices before making the purchase.